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Perez, 23, broke his left big toe after booting the cart following his Sunday start versus the St. Louis Cardinals. He didn't figure into the decision of a 5-4 extra-innings win by the Pirates.

Perez has struggled this season after having a breakout 2004 campaign. He has a 6-5 record and whopping 6.16 earned-run average through 15 starts. However, five of his wins have come in his last six decisions.

The hard-throwing left-hander had 12 wins, a 2.98 ERA and struck out 239 batters in his first season with the Pirates. He was acquired by Pittsburgh from the San Diego Padres on Aug. 26, 2003 along with outfielder Jason Bay of Trail, B.C., in exchange for outfielder Brian Giles.

The Pirates have recalled outfielder Nate McLouth from the Triple-A Indianapolis Indians to fill the vacant roster spot.

McLouth is hitting .306 with 12 doubles, five home runs, 32 RBIs and a team-leading 23 stolen bases through 74 games with the Indians this season.

McLouth is expected to be with the Pirates Tuesday night in Washington for the opener of a three-game set at RFK Stadium against the Nationals.